i did my surgery alone i had to tell person a neighbor so they could drive made to and from the hospital fam doesnt know friends dont know the way i see it there is so much negative energy and messed up facts about it ive made my decision long ago and i didnt want them trying to influence me with whatever nonsense they come up with you can do it most if not all hospitals have support groups of gastric patients you should go they can help you address your issues with friends and family what to say what to do